Outstanding Outfit Bloggers

Do Your Own Thing in Exuberant Colours

LA-based actor Zia Domic documents her outfits on her blog, The Hunter Collector, and on Instagram. With her unique, maximal, and fashion-forward style, she is the perfect example of someone who does her own thing with fashion and is loving every second of it. She is a master of bold colour combos, loves high heels, statement specs, and chain link detailing.

Zia Domic - 1

Zia mixes second-hand and new pieces in this pink and purple look with charming retro vibes. She’s tucked a fluid-fit pink shirt into pleated tapered and cropped trousers, which lengthens the leg line from the hip upwards. A skinny gold belt accentuates our 5’4″ blogger’s waistline, and echoes the oversized gold chain strap on her bag, big hoop earrings and bracelets. Hot pink satin pumps with crystal embellishment match the shirt, and add playful bling. The cable-knit lavender cardigan thrown over her shoulders is a lighter tint of the vibrant purple trousers. So is the cute beret that amps up the retro charm. Zia introduces a third colour with her bright green quilted bag. Finally, her pink and green-rimmed statement specs and raspberry lippy cleverly repeat the colours in her outfit.

Zia Domic - 2

This statement outfit with line-dancing vibe combines bright tomato red with khaki, rust and brown. Zia has tucked a lightweight puff-sleeved sweater into a two-tiered midi skirt. The ruffle detailing and asymmetrical hemline create lots of swooshy movement. The sweater’s square neckline works perfectly to showcase our blogger’s oversized gold chain-link necklace. Tomato red and rust-coloured patchwork ankle boots with on-trend square toe bookend the sweater while also adding texture. So do the brown braided leather belt and small structured bag, whose chain-link strap cleverly refers back to our blogger’s necklace. Dramatic sunnies with red rim and soft pink lipstick finish off the look.

Zia Domic - 3

Zia creates a happy explosion of colour with electric apple green and bright orange. She is sporting a white bandeau top with trendy high-waisted trousers and long, double-breasted blazer. The tailored shoulder on the relaxed-fit blazer together with the fitted top add structure. The gold block-heeled sandals peeking out from under the elegant floor-skimming wide-legged trousers add height. Our blogger’s eye-catching resin chain necklace matches her trousers. Once again, Zia throws an extra colour into the mix with her choice of bag; a small structured yellow number, also with chain link detailing. Wearing her hair back leaves lots of room for Zia’s gold hoop earrings, statement specs and bright orange lipstick to shine.

Zia Domic - 4

A delightful monochromatic look in yellow. Zia combines dressy, mid-thigh high-waisted yellow shorts with a mock turtleneck in a slightly darker mustard-y yellow. Tucking the sweater showcases the self belt and accentuates the waist, while the eyelet pattern adds textural interest. So do her kitten-heeled suede booties in a sunny yellow that’s very close to but not an exact match for the shorts. Our blogger’s small yellow bag comes out to play again, and adds a fourth tone of yellow into the mix. The silver grey Modern Classic coat with beautiful pearl embellishments looks gorgeous with the yellows. Transparent-rimmed square-shaped sunnies mimic the coat colour. Soft rosy lipstick completes the look.

Zia Domic - 5

This maximal look has a lot going on without feeling overwhelming. The olive high-waisted faux leather trousers are the star of the show. Zia has tucked in a houndstooth mesh turtleneck top that adds pattern and subtle allure. Its body-con fit tempers the volume of the ruffle paper-bag waist and trouser pleating. Zia’s refined lace-up croc-embossed booties with block heel create soft edge. The black footwear repeats the black in the top. Our blogger’s reversible wool lapel coat is another statement piece in this outfit. The rust and flax colourway is gorgeous and unexpected with the olive green. The playful bucket hat and bold-framed retro sunnies match the coat colours. Zia’s love for resin and chain links continues unabashedly with the handle on her soft taupe bag.

Zia Domic - 6

Leave it to colour aficionado Zia to pair merlot with neon green! She is wearing a body-con ribbed knit midaxi dress with alluring square neckline. The puff sleeves add an element of curviness, and the thigh-high slit amps up the va-va-voom. The one-of-a-kind pointy-toe knee-high wedge boots clash with the merlot in a decidedly modern way that works brilliantly. Our blogger’s chain link necklace matches the boots perfectly. And Zia wouldn’t be Zia if she couldn’t add a third colour with her fun lilac boho bag with scrunchy handle. Forest green cat-eye sunnies, gold bracelets, and red lipstick are the finishing touches.

 
I can’t wait to hear what you think of Zia’s exuberant style. Let us know in the comments, and be sure to browse the rest of her outfits on her blog and Instagram account.

Outfit Formula: Grey and Brown

Some people don’t like mixing warm and cool colours in the same outfit. Personally, I like the effect, and encourage you to wear it if it tickles your fancy. Here, cool grey, white and a bit of blue are combined with different browns. I’ve helped clients pull these looks together, and adore it on them. A few of our forum members wear the combination with panache too.

Think of any way to combine shades of brown with grey. Add blue and white if you like. Here are the examples to get you started.

1. Columned Grey with Warm Support Act

Create a column of grey with a dress or separates. Throw a grey, Winter white, and brown topper over the top like a coat, cardigan or shacket. Finish off the look with tan or toffee footwear and a handbag to match. Keep the topper a warm solid earth tone if that’s more your thing. I can see Winter white boots and bag work well here too.

Columned Grey with Warm Support Act

2. Grey, White and Brown

This is a good way to wear warm, earthy colours away from your face. Combine a white shirt with a grey pullover and leave it untucked. Combine that with a pair of bottoms and boots in a warm shade of brown. I like how the white shirt makes the grey punchy and crisp. But feel free to leave out the white, and combine a grey top with brown bottoms. The right shade of grey or silver footwear will work well too. I vote a brown, silver or white bag.

Grey White and Brown

3. Patterned Grey and Solid Cinnamon

Combine a pair of grey jeans or pair of pants with a grey and white patterned top. Feel free to keep the top solid grey. Throw over a jacket or coat in a shade of brown, like this yummy cinnamon. Complete the look with a white complement that picks up the white in the pattern. If white shoes, belt and bag are not your thing, keep them tan, silver, or a shade of brown.

Patterned Grey and Solid Cinnamon

4. Light Blue Instead of Grey

Substitute light blue for grey. I don’t wear grey, so this would be my strategy. I also like the addition of the blue jeans that cool down the earth tones. Combine blue jeans with an earthy patterned top. Layer a light blue denim shirt and an earthy jacket or coat over the top. Finish off the look with tan, brown or cream footwear, and a bag to match. A light blue bag would be a yummy addition. The belt is optional. Add jewellery, watch, eyewear, and headgear as desired.

Light Blue Instead of Grey

Link Love: New Sustainable Materials

I’ve been following Fashionista’s “The Future of Sustainable Materials” series with interest: “As sustainability becomes an increasingly pressing priority in fashion and beauty, we explore the innovations that could pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.” Here are three articles to get you started:

Fab Links from Our Members

Stagiaire Fash enjoyed The story behind the nap dress and the woman who made it go viral.

She also has her doubts behind the motives of the pro-aging trend that might be replacing the anti-aging concept.

This BBC article about fast fashion just reiterates why Minaminu is against it.

Suntiger absolutely loved these vintage fashion photos from the 1940s and pics of old Hollywood stars on vacation.

Nuancedream says: “I don’t know when European travel might be on my radar again, but Susan has mastered the travel wardrobe. I think I need that Uniqlo lightweight puffer jacket.”

In this video, Vildy discovered some great new-to-her methods for hanging pants and jeans securely, and to conserve vertical space when you have none.

Michael Kors is opening a store in Auckland, and Jenni NZ enjoyed reading up on the American designer.

As Shevia is looking forward to the upcoming Gucci movie, she wanted to share this article about the brand turning 100.

“Pour yourself a drink and get comfortable, because Amanda Hallay’s fascinating mini-documentary on Maurizio Gucci’s murder is going to keep you glued to your seat,” says Mary Beth.

L’Abeille directs us to this Atlantic article about one of e-commerce’s biggest problems: returns.

This article on fashionable adaptive clothing caught Nikki’s attention.

Runcarla thoroughly enjoyed this tender little piece on a family who grows roses (and other flowers) for Chanel.

She also thought the Dior Spring/Summer 2022 show was absolutely wonderful.

Roundups

Simpler Items

This week's list of top picks list is about basic pieces.

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Assorted Items

Items for Summer, both in and out of air conditioning.

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Casual Summer Vibes

This week's top picks are good for a casual Summer vibe.

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Summery Earth Tones

These items are for those who like to wear casual earth tones in warm and hot weather.

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Hints of Spring

Some tried-and-tested winning items to refresh your style for Spring.

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Dressier Items

An assortment of dressier top picks might be just what the doctor ordered.

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Fab Finds: Scarves, Skincare, Knitwear

It’s six weeks until the end of the year, and I can barely believe it. Time flies faster each year, and the busier you are, the faster it flies. Gone are the days when time dragged on and I wished it would speed up. Now I wish for five extra hours a day. Unfortunately that won’t happen, but I can try to be more organized about my time. Considering the chronic worldwide supply chain challenges and shipment delays, I’ve started Christmas shopping early this year. On that note, here are some items that might make good gifts, or fill a few wardrobe holes.

1. Alexander McQueen Scarves

McQueen scarves with skull designs are an iconic classic. They have a great assortment at the Rack at discounted prices at the moment. They are pricey, but cheaper than full price. Be sure to check out the more intricate designs that showcase botanicals and serpents with skulls.

2. Vanicream Skincare Products

I have sensitive skin that is prone to dermatitis and eczema. I’ve had extensive dermatological testing done this year, and found that I’m allergic to a few chemicals, metals, and natural products. I have a safe list of beauty products that I can use, and Vanicream products are my favourire. They are very gentle, moisturizing, and do the trick. I use the cleanser twice a day. I use the ointment and the moisturizer on my face twice a day too. I apply the ointment first, and the moisturizer afterwards. I use the ointment on my hands and feet because why not! It’s very effective for dry cuticles. I am about to try the sunscreen. I don’t use foundation or tinted moisturizer, and am generally happy with the appearance of my skin. For what it’s worth, you might like to look into these products if you are prone to irritation like I am.

3. Ralph Lauren Knitwear

Ralph Lauren is a good mix of trendy classic and casual elegance. At this time of year, you’ll find neutrals, earth tones, and holiday colours in their collections. I’ve been having a good run with their quality, and bought the Chain-Print Crewneck Sweater in navy. It’s cotton, like a lot of their knitwear, which is excellent if you’re allergic to wool. There are some fun metallics, Fair Isles, and patterns. Cables are signature, and you’ll find knitted skirts to match the sweaters. Some great basic wardrobe essentials too. I have my eye on a few more of these pieces,

4. Melrose and Market Soft Ribbed Knit Beanie

This super soft, comfy and cosy $10 beanie was a GREAT find for my small head. It can be worn slouchy or fitted and turned-back with a cuff on the rim. I wear it both ways, and am looking for a solid scarf to match. Comes in four colours, and I got the shocking pink. I wish it came in cream and citron.

5. Beauty Advent Calendars

We’ve been talking about advent calendars filled with fun beauty products on the forum. It can be a nice way to pamper yourself daily in December, especially if you’ve had a tough year. A little YOU time each day because you’re worth it. Or perhaps send one to someone who deserves a little TLC. Here are some lovely ones across a range of price points. Some of them are for twelve days if that’s more appealing. I’ve included some candle and accessory options too. I particularly like the Rituals one — a Dutch brand — with the Dutch decorative houses.

Pink and Your Style

In my experience, pink is the most complicated colour of them all. Friends, family, and my clients either love it or loathe it. For some pink is a signature colour, while others refuse to wear it. Some wear it sparingly, in very specific settings, and in very specific tints, tones and shades. Others like to wear it in the Spring and Summer, and that’s it. Some wear it as a pastel or dirty mid-tone, and others as a clear bright. Some stick to pink lipstick and flowers in their garden, and say no thanks to the rest.

As a colour, pink symbolizes romance, tenderness, and sensitivity. It’s the colour of breast cancer awareness month. It’s a traditionally feminine and girly colour. That said, men wear pink too, but more frequently in parts of Europe or Asia. Pink can look soft, pretty, gentle, soothing, and charming. It can also look strong, cheeky and vivacious. In the right hue, tint, tone or shade, pink can be flattering with your complexion. It can be quite versatile as a soft pastel.

Pink wardrobe items are sometimes also considered overly sweet, twee, delicate, precious, and juvenile. The opposite of tough, hard-edged, influential, and powerful. Some women have bad associations of wearing pink under duress as a child, while others simply don’t like the way it looks.

When it comes to pink, I’m in the love it camp. I have worn it my whole life. It doesn’t have negative associations for me, and I feel great when wearing it. I enjoy how it can look soft and pretty, or electric and unique. I feel strong, confident, attractive and powerful in pink.

I generally stick to two types of pink, which are both well represented across clothing, footwear and accessories in my wardrobe (in both solids and patterns). I love a bright shocking pink with an ‘80s vibe, and a soft but fairly saturated tone of blush pink. Occasionally I’ll wear fuchsia, bubblegum, and neon pink. Blush pink footwear and handbags are wardrobe essentials for my style, and extremely versatile. I love combining pinks with red and orange, and since I wear a lot of red, pink is an easy addition.

These are the pink items in my wardrobe at the moment. Most are solid, and some are patterns. I’d like to add a blush pink coat, pair of pants, and pleather jacket at some point. I’d love a pair of shocking pink pants too:

Zappos
Cole Haan Cole Haan
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Top Pick
11
Boden
Helen Sparkle Dress
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12
Boden
Linen Shirt
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17
Boden
Print Scarf
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9
Boden
Viola Multiway Bag
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11
Boden
Antonia Sweater
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Top Pick
18
Boden
Cashmere Crew Sweater
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Top Pick
13
Yoox
Furla Handbag
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Top Pick
20

Over to you. Do you wear pink, and how does it feature in your style? Does pink have negative connotations for you?